Ear Wax Removal - Microsuction
Home Visit - Microsuction Procedure
Your consultation will start with a discussion about you, and the issues you are having with your ears or hearing.
This discussion will also ensure that you have understood the assessment and provided informed consent for the assessment and treatment. Then the practitioner will examine both ears in turn, first the outer ear canal and then middle ear cavity with an otoscope. They will then discuss with you any conditions found as well as any treatment suggested. At this point you will be able to make a decision about what treatment you would like to receive.
If the wax is softer and has 'fallen' back on your ear drum then it will be advised to use Water Irrigation (rather than microsuction) to avoid working too closely to the delicate ear drum. This will be explained to you in detail to ensure you are informed of the most suitable option.
If suctioning is needed...
The patient will be seated in an ergonomic chair designed for comfort. The practitioner will use Voretek Head Loupes (magnification glasses) to closely examine the patient’s ears. A speculum, a small funnel-like device, will be gently placed just inside the ear to provide a clear view of the ear canal.
A fine tube connected to a suction machine will be used to remove the ear wax. The suction intensity is carefully controlled both on the machine and by the practitioner’s fingers to ensure the ideal setting for the patient’s ears. The suction can be a bit noisy, and the patient may feel a slight cooling sensation from the air, but this is brief and will not harm their hearing.
The suction machine produces various sounds as it removes the wax. It may be silent when the wax seals the tube, pop when the wax is quickly drawn up, or squeal when skin or dry wax vibrates in the tube. A finer suction tip attachment will be used as needed to minimise any squealing noise, if present.
Throughout the procedure, the practitioner will explain each step and check the patient’s comfort to ensure the experience is pleasant and effective.
Post procedure expectations
After the procedure, you may find that sounds seem much louder as your hearing improves. Conversely, you might experience a slight muffling of sounds, but this effect is temporary and will subside within a few minutes.
The sensation of cooler air entering your ears might cause brief unsteadiness; this is completely normal and will pass quickly.
If a follow-up appointment is needed, perhaps due to a particularly stubborn piece of wax, we will schedule it at no extra cost, as it is included in the original service fee.
Procedure duration
The procedure can take anywhere from 5 to 45 minutes, depending on the condition of your ear and the ear wax. However, it typically takes less than 20 minutes.
Equipment and safety standards
The equipment used by our practice is the same quality as used in hospitals. The Voretek headloupes used are the same as those used by ENT surgeons to ensure depth perception and adequate magnification. To maintain everyones health and physical safety, all in ear treatment items are disposable.
Our suction machines are equipped with the highest possible power, ensuring they can handle even the most stubborn wax deposits. Each device features a bacterial filtration system to protect you from infections. We prioritise your safety, meticulously cleaning all surfaces, machines, and products between appointments.